Why I No Longer Use White Sage in Rituals

You won't heal generational trauma with medicine from someone else's culture.

Those words popped into my head as I joined a discussion on my community message board that began when a neighbor asked where she could buy a smudging kit to give to a friend who was moving to a new home. I encouraged her not to give her friend white sage and explained its history. Some people agreed with me. Others implied I was being ridiculous because every metaphysical shop in town sold it, which means it is meant for everyone.

My path to holistic wellness has been a life-changing journey, one that has led me to a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the tools and rituals I embrace. This newfound appreciation has not only inspired me but also prompted a shift in my practices. I've transitioned from using white sage for energy clearing to frankincense and myrrh, which resonate deeply with my Italian heritage. This shift is more than just a change in practice; it's a sacred commitment to honor and preserve the integrity of cultural traditions.

White sage, highly valued in many Indigenous cultures for its potent cleansing properties, is used in sacred ceremonies for healing and protection. However, its growing popularity in mainstream wellness has had significant consequences, including overharvesting. This overharvesting, a consequence of its popularity, not only depletes the supply but also prevents Native people from sustainably collecting it. It is also believed that if the plant is reaped in a disrespectful way for the sake of profit, it negates the good energy that comes from it. This highlights the importance of using spiritual tools with respect and understanding.

The appropriation of white sage is a cautionary tale of how cultural elements can be abused. When non-Indigenous people adopt smudging without a true understanding or respect for its significance, it contributes to the erasure and commercialization of Native cultures. And when you consider the historical suppression of Indigenous spiritual practices, the casual adoption of these sacred rituals can seem incredibly insensitive.

This reflection prompted me to delve into my heritage for inspiration. Engaging in conversations with family, reading about Italian traditions, and exploring scholarly insights enriched my understanding of the practices that connect me to my roots. This research revealed my ancestors' rich traditions and opened a pathway to a more authentic and respectful practice. And what better way to heal my soul and spirit than with the medicine my ancestors used?

It's crucial that spiritual teachers encourage their students to delve into their cultural traditions and the unique histories they hold. This not only broadens their perspectives but also fosters more authentic spiritual growth. By cultivating wellness practices that inspire, heal, and respect the tapestry of human culture, we contribute to a culture of respect and appreciation for global traditions. This ensures we all move forward in our healing journeys with sensitivity and integrity, potentially fostering a global shift toward more respect and authenticity.

Recently, on social media, I started a discussion with fellow healers about white sage. Many shared that they have also moved away from using white sage and are reconnecting with the spiritual traditions of their ancestors. Others wrote that spiritual tools and traditions belong to the earth and can be used by all. No one owns anything.

If you still use white sage, is it with a deep understanding of its history or merely an aesthetic preference? Are you using it because of its story or despite it? What else do you know about the traditions of Indigenous cultures? 

This is a beautiful opportunity for us to delve deeper into the origins and meanings of our spiritual tools. Let's keep this conversation going and continue to learn from each other, ensuring that our spiritual practices are as respectful as they are meaningful.